Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

I am so late to the party on this one. In my defense, I really loved the first book, and didn’t want to have it potentially lessened by a less than stellar second book. I’ve finally cracked and read it because I do want to watch the movie, and I prefer to read the book first. While this book doesn’t stand up to the first one, it’s not a total dud either. I know, that doesn’t sound like a rousing recommendation.

This book does have a lot of high points, like the visits to the districts, the scenes with Cinna, the dialogues with Haymitch, and some of the game scenes. But there are also lots of low points too, like Katniss’ continual love triangle issues, lots of hinting without confirmations, and the slightly confusing final scene.

I listened to the audiobook version, which is not what I did with the first book. I enjoyed the narration and found it fit well with Katniss’ character. It was easy to follow, and felt very natural. I’d recommend the audiobook version as it made for a great experience.

Overall, this is a decent set-up book for the finale, but it’s not a stand alone book in anyway; it relies too heavily on events that have happened and those that will be coming. As a character, Katniss seems a bit wishy-washy outside of the games, although her interactions with other characters are still entertaining. While I didn’t love the book, I feel better that I can now watch the movie, and I am looking forward to reading the finale.